Diamond Star DA40

Piston • single engine • Low Wing • Fixed gear

Range Visualization

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Payload vs. Range

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Avg. pax weight (lbs)

Default: 190 lbs (FAA standard)

Luggage per pax (lbs)

Default: 30 lbs

Passengers

lbs @ lbs / pax

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Fuel on board

gal

+ Weight

Range

Available Range / nm

Mission capable — Aircraft can handle the current load with full fuel tanks.

Fuel tradeoff required — You'll need to leave gallons of fuel behind ( gal usable for nm range).

Over max gross weight — Reduce payload by lbs to safely operate this aircraft.

Mission Profile

154

KTAS

Cruise Speed

Occupants

940

Max Range

670

lbs

Wet Payload

Estimated Ownership Costs

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About the Diamond Star DA40

Diamond DA40 NG

The DA40 NG is a modern, composite four-seater that has become a staple in both high-end flight schools and the owner-flown market. Unlike the earlier Lycoming-powered ‘Star’ models, the NG features the Austro AE300 diesel engine, allowing it to sip Jet-A fuel with remarkable efficiency. Its glider-heritage wings and bubble canopy provide industry-leading visibility and exceptionally docile stall characteristics, making it one of the safest platforms in General Aviation.

Key Features for GA Buyers

Fuel Efficiency: Burns as little as 5.1 gallons of Jet-A per hour at economy cruise.
Modern Avionics: Typically equipped with the Garmin G1000 NXi suite and GFC 700 autopilot.
FADEC Simplicity: Single-lever power control reduces pilot workload and protects the engine.
Safety Record: Boasts one of the lowest fatal accident rates in the industry thanks to its ‘fail-safe’ composite airframe and stable handling.

Trade-offs

Payload Constraints: With a full 39-gallon fuel load, the remaining payload for passengers and baggage can be tight for four adults.
Climb Performance: While steady, the climb rate (690 fpm) is more modest compared to high-performance competitors or the Lycoming-powered XLT variant at lower altitudes.
Ingress/Egress: The ‘bathtub’ style entry requires stepping over the side, which may be challenging for some passengers.

Technical Specifications

Dimensions

Wingspan: 38.17 ft
Length: 26.42 ft
Height: 6.5 ft

Weights

Max Takeoff Weight: 2,888 lbs
Max Landing Weight: 2,822 lbs
Useful Load: 904 lbs
Fuel Capacity: 39 gal

Performance

Cruise Speed: 154 KTAS
Range: 940 NM
Service Ceiling: 16,400 ft
Rate of Climb: 690 fpm

Engines

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